Player spotlight: Aisha Bello

Volleyvarse player spotlight Aisha Bello: Discover her journey and achievements now

How did the opportunity to play abroad come about?

The opportunity came directly through one of my coaches. They recognized my potential believed in my abilities and helped connect me with international teams. Their guidance and network were key to opening this door for me

What was going through your mind when you found out you'd be playing abroad?

It was a complete mix of excitement, gratitude, and a bit of nervousness. Playing abroad has always been a dream of mine and always prayed for the opportunity to step up my level of volleyball by competing in a country where the sport is deeply valued and celebrated. I was deeply honored that my hard work was being recognized on an international level but I also felt the weight of responsibility that comes with stepping into a whole new environment. I just felt ready to embrace the challenge make the most of this answer to my prayers and prove what I could do.

What was the biggest culture shock when you first arrived?

The biggest shock was adjusting to the shift in daily rhythm everything from the pace of life and food culture to the communication style on and off the court.

Was there a language barrier, and how did you navigate communicating with your teammates and coaches?

At first there was definitely a slight barrier especially when it came to fast paced instructions during high intensity moments🥹 However, volleyball has its own universal language. I relied heavily on court signals, hand gestures, and watching visual cues during practice. My teammates and coaches were also really patient with me and learning key volleyball terms in the local language helped me bridge the gap quickly both on and off the court.

Is there anything from Nigerian culture you find yourself missing or trying to hold onto while abroad?

I miss the vibrant energy, warmth, and sense of community back home and of course nigerian food I hold onto our resilient Nigerian spirit, which gives me strength whenever things get tough. I also love playing Nigerian music before matches during my warm-up routine, it keeps me grounded, connected to my roots and brings that energetic 'never-give-up' vibe onto the court

What's something about the way volleyball is played there that has made you a better player?

The game here is much faster and there is a big focus on technique and strategy. It forced me to think faster on the court, move better, and make smart decisions under pressure. It has really helped me grow into a smarter, well rounded player.

How do the fans and the general love for volleyball there compare to what you experienced in Nigeria?

The fans and the volleyball culture here are incredible! The crowds bring so much passion and noise to every single match. What blows me away is how far the fans go to support us by spending their time, money, and everything they have just to be there. Even when we are losing they never give up on us; win or lose they are always by our side. Compared to fans back in Nigeria, 9ja fans give you that organic vibrant 'never-say-die' spirit that instantly pumps you up. It also brings back memories of the Lagos State handball players who competed in the National Sports Festival some years back, they are true genuine supporters because they never give up on volleyball team back then.

What's the hardest part about being away from home for such long periods and how do you stay connected to family and friends back home while you're away?

Staying far away from home for a long time is definitely one of the hardest parts for me and I think that’s true for anyone who has a loving family back home. Missing out on everyday moments with the people I love is tough. At my free time I rely a lot on regular video calls, phone calls and text messages. Hearing their voices, sharing updates about my games, and staying involved in their daily lives keeps me grounded and gives me strength while I’m away

What do you miss most when you're away, and what do you look forward to most when you come back?

I miss my family so much. Losing my dad while I was away from home was really painful and ever since then all I’ve wanted is to spend time with my family, loved ones and treasure every single moment together. Alongside my family, I miss home cooked Nigerian meals and the warm, vibrant energy of home. What I look forward to most when I return is simply reuniting with my loved ones, enjoying good food, relaxing in a familiar environment and catching up on all the moments I missed while playing abroad.

What was the goal you set for yourself before making this move, and how close are you to it?

My main goal was to push myself out of my comfort zone, elevate my game to an international standard, and become a more versatile and complete player. I feel like I am steadily working toward that every day. While there is always room to grow and improve, I'm proud of the progress I’ve made so far and feel much closer to reaching my full potential

What's next for you, do you see yourself staying in the country you're playing in, moving to another league, or coming back home eventually?

Right now, my focus is on giving my best to my current team till i graduate from college and continuing to grow as a player. Playing here has been great but I definitely want to take a step forward and play in other countries as well. If the opportunity comes to test myself in another international league, I will take it and hopefully those doors will open. Home will always be home and I’ll return eventually but for now, I want to keep exploring new opportunities abroad

What do you hope playing abroad does for how Nigerian players are seen internationally?

I hope it opens more doors and changes the narrative around Nigerian volleyball. We have so much talent, raw passion, and dedication back home. By performing at a high level abroad, I want to show the world that Nigerian athletes are disciplined, highly capable, and deserving of respect on the global stage.

What would you tell a young Nigerian player who dreams of playing professionally overseas one day?

I would tell them to stay disciplined, work tirelessly on their fundamentals and never stop believing in their dream. The journey won't always be easy and you will face challenges but keep praying, stay focused, and push through every obstacle. Believe that your hard work and talent will take you places. Above all, always stay humble and open to learning because no matter how young or small a coach, senior or instructor may be, you have to calm down, listen, and learn. Learning never stops.

When people talk about your career one day, what do you want them to remember most?

I want them to remember me not just as a great volleyball player but as someone who played with heart, passion, and resilience. I hope people see me as an inspiration someone who stayed true to her roots, overcame tough times, paved the way for others coming behind and represented Nigeria with pride. Above all, I want them to know my journey was defined by hard work: nothing was given to me, everything was earned.

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